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What would produce better images on a D700?
-Nikon 80-200 f2.8 AF-D with a Kenko 1.4x teleconverter (equiv. of 112-280mm)
-Nikon 70-300 VR
-Tokina 80-400 (can't afford and really don't want the Nikon version)
I mostly need the 200-400 end, and I'm shooting outdoors during the day. I already own the 80-200 which is a very good quality lens, but I need more zoom. I'm also considering using the DX crop mode. My budget is $500 max.
If I were you I'd look into getting a Kenko 1.7x or 2x
I use to own the Tokina and while I liked it's build quality and it's optical quality I absolutely hated how slow the AF was on my D90 and that I could not really use it in anything but bright sunlight outdoors.
Also the focal lengths would overlap so you'd basically be stuck with a 300-400 that goes from f/5.2 to f/5.6.
The 2XTC + 80-200 combo would be the best because you get the 400mm @ f/5.6 and the aperture values along the focal length will be better compared to the other lenses as well as you can always remove the TC and get f/2.8 where the others will always start at f/4.5
I dont know about the TC but the 80-200 is a great lens. Nothing beats F2.8 @200.
This may sway your decision - 70-300 Refurb for $349.95
http://www.adorama.com/NK70300AFVRR.html?utm_term=Other&utm_medium=Affiliate&utm_campaign=Other&utm_source=rflAID021866
I own one and love it..
Jon
Nikon 70-300VR - VR will help tons and it is a great lens.
80-200 is great also but much much heavier. Adding a TC just reduces the IQ especially if it is not a Nikon one.
I am mostly concerned with image quality at the 200mm+ focal lengths. I don't need VR because I'm shooting outdoors during the day at 1/500 or 1/750 at least. I'm not concerned a whole lot with the build. I am very tempted by the 70-300, but I already own the 80-200 and don't want to sell it and regret it later. Don't know much about the Tokina 80-400...
80-200 with TC gives you effectively two lenses, one with f2.8 and one longer reach that is a little slower depending on which TC you use.
I think you'd love the 70-300mm VR on your D700. I used to have one and thought it was a great lens. Despite the lack of 2.8, I always felt the 70-300 was faster than the 80-200! Seriously, but obviously not as fast as the 70-200 lenses. Maybe I had a great sample? It is super light, sharp, a good price, and the VR is really wonderful. I used to have a 70-200mm VR 1 but gave it up for the weight, and eventually traded in my 70-300 for the new 28-300mm VR. For some reason the D700 and the 70-300mm are one of those magical combinations. Some lenses really work well together giving excellent results go get one!
Peppermint, there's no need for this to be complicated. Since you already have an 80-200 that you like and have a budget of $500, look at the Nikon teleconverters. If the idea of lighter weight intrigues you, try the 70-300mm first.
Most stores have 30 day return policies, so buy from one of them and find out which works for you.
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